Come back: meaning, definitions and examples
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come back
[ kʌm bæk ]
return
To come back means to return to a place or situation that you were in before.
Synonyms
go back, return, return to, revisit.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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come back |
Used when referring to someone returning to the place they are currently at or previously mentioned. It often implies a sense of familiarity or a shorter duration since the last departure.
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return |
A more formal term used when referring to someone coming back to a place they have been before. It can be used in both casual and formal situations, but it often sounds more polished.
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go back |
Used when referring to someone returning to a place they were before, but emphasizes the action of moving to that place rather than returning to where the speaker is. It often implies a sense of leaving for a while or returning to a previous state or condition.
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revisit |
Implies going back to a place, topic, or memory for review, examination, or consideration. It suggests a thoughtful or deliberate action, rather than simply coming back.
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return to |
Specifically used to mention going back to a particular activity, state, or place previously occupied. It is often used in formal contexts and written communication.
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Examples of usage
- He promised to come back and visit us soon.
- I'll come back to finish the job later.
- She came back to the same spot every year.
- They decided to come back home after their trip.
- We need to come back to this issue later.
response
A come back is a quick and witty response to a comment or insult.
Synonyms
comeback, reply, response, retort.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
come back |
Use 'come back' when someone physically returns to a place or potentially returns to a former state or condition.
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retort |
This word is used for a sharp, quick, or witty reply, often in response to criticism or insult. It typically has a negative or defensive connotation.
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response |
This word is used when referring to an answer or reaction to a question, statement, or situation. It can be used formally or informally.
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reply |
This word is used for verbally or written responding to a question, statement, or situation. It is neutral and generally used in formal contexts.
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comeback |
This word is used when referring to a return to a former position or condition, especially after a period of inactivity or difficulty. It can also be used for witty or sharp replies.
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Examples of usage
- She always has a clever come back to his jokes.
- His come back silenced the room.
- The comedian's come back had the audience laughing.
- I wasn't expecting such a good come back from her.
Translations
Translations of the word "come back" in other languages:
🇵🇹 voltar
🇮🇳 वापस आना
🇩🇪 zurückkommen
🇮🇩 kembali
🇺🇦 повертатися
🇵🇱 wracać
🇯🇵 戻る
🇫🇷 revenir
🇪🇸 volver
🇹🇷 geri dönmek
🇰🇷 돌아오다
🇸🇦 يعود
🇨🇿 vrátit se
🇸🇰 vrátiť sa
🇨🇳 回来
🇸🇮 vrniti se
🇮🇸 koma aftur
🇰🇿 қайту
🇬🇪 დაბრუნება
🇦🇿 qayıtmaq
🇲🇽 volver
Etymology
The term 'come back' originated in the 15th century, combining 'come' meaning 'move or travel towards' and 'back' referring to a return to a previous position or condition. Over time, it has evolved to encompass both physical return and verbal response, becoming a versatile phrase in everyday language.